As one of the most-watched TV programs of the year, the Super Bowl is the ideal environment to prominently draw attention to Honda's all-new Accord Crosstour. Airing during the fourth quarter, the 30-second spot features an animated squirrel with an insatiable appetite for "squirreling away" all things cargo, set to the tune of "Funky Stuff" by Kool & The Gang. "Squirrel" is part of an integrated, multiplatform advertising campaign developed by Honda's long-standing agency of record, RPA, to support the vehicle launch.

"Our newest Accord Crosstour spot, ‘Squirrel,' is intended to leverage media's largest stage to announce Honda's newest entry into the world of next-generation, sporty, crossover vehicles," said Tom Peyton, senior manager, national advertising, American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

Reaching beyond the Super Bowl game, Honda's "Squirrel" spot will be featured on the following Web sites:

• MSN home-page takeover on Sat., Feb.6–Sun., Feb. 7
• Fox Sports home-page roadblock on Sun., Feb. 7
• YouTube masthead on Mon., Feb. 8

The series of Accord Crosstour spots ("Instruments," "Box," "Snow Trip," "Squirrel"), produced by Elastic, rely on atypical, pronounced polygonal animation and rhythmic music to showcase the all-new Honda Accord Crosstour, an alternative to the SUV/CUV category.

"The style of the work really comes back to the Crosstour itself. It's a modern solution. It gives you a lot of storage, but it doesn't look or drive like other things out there. We wanted the visual style of the advertising to reflect this. So right away, you know that something new is going on here," said Pat Mendelson, SVP, creative director at RPA.

Spots air during high-profile, high-engagement network prime, sports and cable programming, including the championship game of the Bowl Championship Series on ABC, Super Bowl XLIV on CBS and the 2010 Winter Olympics on NBC.

On Jan. 1, branded entertainment in the form of custom-produced vignettes kicked off with a 90-second vignette during the 2010 Bridgestone NHL Winter Classic on NBC. The vignettes continue through January and co-promote the all-new Accord Crosstour and the return of NBC's Chuck. The story line of the vignettes began at the Winter Classic and follows a journey toward the Winter Olympics.

To leverage the target's heavy print readership, Accord Crosstour print appears in magazines across various categories, including the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition, Men's Health, Time, Forbes and The Economist. In-theater begins in February and outdoor will be featured in more than 20 key markets during the spring.

Extending awareness of the Accord Crosstour online, unique placements included sponsored content that ran across various technology Web sites coinciding with the Consumer Electronics Show.

Consumers can connect with the all-new Accord Crosstour at the following high-impact events, targeting upscale suburbanites: Ribfest Chicago 2010, Safeway National Capitol BBQ in Washington, D.C., and the 36th Annual Sun ‘n Fun Fly-In in Lakeland, Florida.

About Honda Crosstour
The Accord Crosstour combines the sophisticated refinement of a premium sedan with versatile characteristics of an SUV to create an entirely distinct concept within the Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV) segment. Leveraging the many benefits of a car-based platform, the Accord Crosstour starts with the top-level refinement of the Accord V-6 Sedan and further expands utility with a sleek-yet-functional profile for increased cargo space.

About RPA
RPA, headquartered in Santa Monica, Calif., is a leading independent advertising agency, with more than $1 billion in billings. RPA builds momentum for brands by offering its clients truly integrated campaigns that resonate throughout its disciplines, which include traditional advertising, interactive, and direct and event marketing. RPA's client list includes American Honda, both the Honda and Acura brands, California Department of Public Health, La-Z-Boy, Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino and PENTAX Imaging Company, and it is the media planning and buying agency for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, Lenox Financial Mortgage and Reily Foods. For more information, visit http://www.rpa.com.

American Honda Motor Co., Inc., posted total January vehicle sales of 67,479, an increase of 2.9 percent compared to January 2009, based on the daily selling rate,* which involved two fewer selling days. Honda Division posted January sales of 60,347, an increase of 3.5 percent versus January 2009.

Leading Honda January total car sales of 37,736 were Accord, up 35.6 percent to 20,759, and Civic, up 12.1 percent to 14,693. Honda light-truck sales decreased 11.2 percent to 22,611.

"We're off to a steady start for 2010 and we're optimistic that we can build momentum," said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales for American Honda. "We look forward to launching the all-new CR-Z sport hybrid coupe later this year, and next week, we'll give everyone their first look at the exciting new Odyssey Concept at the Chicago Auto Show."

The Acura Division posted sales of 7,132, a decline of 1.7 percent compared to January 2009. The MDX was the brand's best-selling vehicle with 2,358 units sold, up 20.3 percent.

*The daily selling rate is calculated with 24 days for January 2010 and 26 days for January 2009. The year-to-date daily selling rate is calculated with 24 days for 2010 and 26 days for 2009. All percentages reflect the daily selling rate.

# # #

For more information or downloadable high-resolution images of Honda and Acura vehicles, please visit www.hondanews.com or www.acuranews.com. Consumer information is available at www.honda.com.

Honda today began operation of a next generation solar hydrogen station prototype at the Los Angeles Center of Honda R&D Americas, Inc., intended for ultimate use as a home refueling appliance capable of an overnight refill of fuel cell electric vehicles.

Designed as a single, integrated unit to fit in the user's garage, Honda's next generation Solar Hydrogen Station reduces the size of the system, while producing enough hydrogen (0.5kg) via an 8-hour overnight fill for daily commuting (10,000 miles per year) for a fuel cell electric vehicle.

The previous solar hydrogen station system required both an electrolyzer and a separate compressor unit to create high pressure hydrogen. The compressor was the largest and most expensive component and reduced system efficiency. By creating a new high differential pressure electrolyzer, Honda engineers were able to eliminate the compressor entirely - a world's first for a home use system. This innovation also reduces the size of other key components to make the new station the world's most compact system, while improving system efficiency by more than 25% (value calculated based on simulations) compared to the solar hydrogen station system it replaces.

Compatible with a "Smart Grid" energy system, the Honda Solar Hydrogen Station would enable users to refill their vehicle overnight without the requirement of hydrogen storage, which would lower CO2 emissions by using less expensive off-peak electrical power. During daytime peak power times, the Solar Hydrogen Station can export renewable electricity to the grid, providing a cost benefit to the customer, while remaining energy neutral.

Designed for simple, user-friendly operation, the intuitive system layout enables the user to easily lift and remove the fuel hose, with no hose coiling when the hose is returned to the dispenser unit.

Engineered for an 8-hour, slow fill for overnight refilling of a fuel cell electric vehicle, the home-use Solar Hydrogen Station would replenish the hydrogen for a typical daily driving, meeting the commuting requirements of many drivers. As with the previous generation system, the hydrogen purity from the new station meets the highest SAE (J2719) and ISO (14687) specifications.

Installed at the Los Angeles Center of Honda R&D Americas, the new Solar Hydrogen Station will employ the same 48-panel, 6.0kW solar array that powered the previous system. The array utilizes thin film solar cells composed of copper, indium, gallium and selenium (CIGS) produced by Honda Soltec Co., Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Honda that was established for the mass production and sales of solar cells capable of efficient renewable electricity generation. Honda's unique solar cells reduce the amount of CO2 generated during production as compared to conventional solar cells.

Designed to support the needs of the future owners of fuel cell electric vehicles, the Honda Solar Hydrogen Station was also designed to complement a public network of fast fill hydrogen stations. The Honda FCX Clarity electric vehicle is fast fill capable and offers an EPA-estimated driving range of 240 miles. With fast fill public stations providing 5-minute fueling time for longer trips, and the opportunity of convenient nighttime slow filling at home using a solar station with a Smart Grid connection, the Honda FCX Clarity can cover a wide range of driving demands from the daily commute to weekend trips.

A key strategy in creating a solar hydrogen station for home-use was to create a new lifestyle with convenient, clean, energy-efficient and sustainable home refueling, by addressing the need for refueling infrastructure that can advance the wider use of fuel cell electric vehicles by consumers.

The combination of a fuel cell electric vehicle and the solar hydrogen station could help lead to the establishment of a hydrogen society based on renewable energy, resulting in a major reduction of CO2 emissions and greater energy sustainability.

Honda began operation of its first Solar Hydrogen Station at the Los Angeles Center of Honda R&D Americas in 2001:

July 2001: 3-unit system with hydrogen storage begins operation.

• October 2003: new 2-unit system with an original Honda electrolyzer and a new solar array utilizing prototype Honda CIGS solar cells offers improved system efficiency.
• August 2008: solar array fitted with mass production CIGS cells from Honda Soltec Co., reducing the size of the array by 20% and further improving photo voltaic (PV) energy efficiency.
• January 2010: new single-unit station begins operation, improving to world's best system efficiency - increasing the efficiency by more than 25% (value calculated based on simulations) compared to the previous solar hydrogen station system, for a world's highest system efficiency.

About Honda R&D Americas, Inc.
Honda R&D Americas, Inc. (HRA) is responsible for creating advanced technologies and products in the U.S. that provide new value to Honda and Acura customers. HRA began R&D operations in the U.S. in 1975 with market research activities in California, and has steadily grown its capabilities over the past 35 years to include all aspects of new vehicle design and development, as well as taking a leading role in the advancement of leading-edge safety and environmental technologies.

Today, Honda operates 15 major R&D facilities in the U.S. with more than 1,300 designers, engineers and support personnel engaged in the development of automobiles, motorcycles and power equipment products for North America and global markets.

HRA's major centers include the Los Angeles Center (Torrance, CA), responsible for market research, concept development and styling design; the Ohio Center (Raymond, OH) responsible for complete product development, testing and support of North American supplier development; and a dynamic test facility in Ohio; and the North Carolina Center (Swepsonville, NC) responsible for power equipment R&D.

Honda News & Views: http://www.honda.com/news
Honda Multimedia Newsroom (For Press Only): http://www.hondanews.com
Honda on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/honda
Honda on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/alicia_at_honda
Honda on Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/hondanews
Honda Web site: http://www.honda.com

American Honda Motor Co., Inc., will debut a concept version of the next-generation Honda Odyssey minivan at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show on February 10, the company announced today.

The next-generation Odyssey will further enhance its hallmark qualities of innovation, quality, safety and fun-to-drive character, while increasing its overall efficiency. The Odyssey, currently in its third generation, was the best-selling minivan in the United States in 2008 and 2009. It is produced from domestic and globally sourced parts by Honda Manufacturing of Alabama, LLC in Lincoln, Alabama.

LA MARATHON LLC and American Honda Motor Co., Inc. today announced that the Silver Anniversary edition of the Sunday, March 21st race will be known as the Honda Los Angeles Marathon, launching a three-year partnership that includes naming rights and a variety of charitable, community service and marketing components. This is the first time in the marathon's 25-year history that the race will have a title sponsor. Honda has been a presenting sponsor of the marathon since 1995.

"For the past 14 years, we've been honored to be affiliated with this great competition and with the manner in which it brings together the entire greater Los Angeles community," said Tetsuo Iwamura, president and chief executive officer of Torrance-based American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "The new course shows off some of the best of what Los Angeles has to offer, and is sure to make the Honda LA Marathon an outstanding, signature event for the running world, for spectators, and for Southern California alike."

For the first time, this year's "Stadium to the Sea" race course will begin at Dodger Stadium and finish overlooking the Pacific Ocean near the Santa Monica Pier, passing through the cities of Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Santa Monica, as well as the federal Veterans' Administration property. Registration for the race is on record pace, and organizers have announced a cap of 25,000 runners. The March 21st event is expected to sell out.

LA MARATHON LLC President Russ Pillar said race officials are thrilled by the Honda partnership. "It is a privilege to be affiliated with such an outstanding, well-known company," Pillar said. "Honda's commitment to the local community is both wide and deep, and having such a distinguished title sponsor reflects the significant changes we've made to deliver a great event for all of Los Angeles."

As part of the agreement, the two organizations have agreed to work together toward furthering the race's charitable component. This initiative is in keeping with Honda's community service orientation and with the marathon's strengthened commitment to philanthropy, which owner Frank McCourt has highlighted since taking stewardship of the race in late 2008. Already, thousands of participants undertake the race on behalf of charity, raising much-needed funds for causes from health to the environment to community-building efforts.

In addition to naming rights for the 2010, 2011 and 2012 Honda LA Marathon, race organizers' agreement with Honda includes a presence at the pre-race Expo, at celebrations that will be held in neighborhoods throughout the course, and at a finish line festival at the beach, next to the Santa Monica Pier. The agreement also includes signage, advertising and a digital media presence.

As in years past, both the male and female winners of the Honda LA Marathon will receive a new Honda automobile in addition to the cash prize. Further details about the prize package will be available closer to race date. Runners may sign up for the 2010 Honda Los Angeles Marathon at www.lamarathon.com.

About Honda:
Honda began operations in the U.S. in 1959 with the establishment of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. in Los Angeles, California, and its North American headquarters is currently based in Torrance, in the South Bay. Honda began U.S. production of motorcycles in 1979 and automobiles in 1982. The company has invested more than $12.1 billion in its North American operations with employment of more than 31,000 associates and annual purchases of more than $17.5 billion in parts and materials from suppliers in North America.

• Honda News & Views: http://www.honda.com/news
• Honda Multimedia Newsroom (For Media Only): http://www.hondanews.com
• Honda on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/alicia_at_honda
• Honda on Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/hondanews
• Honda Web Site: http://www.honda.com

About LA MARATHON LLC:
We inspire athletes and connect communities. With thousands of volunteers, tens of thousands of participants and hundreds of thousands of spectators along the route, the Honda Los Angeles Marathon is one of the largest organized road races in the country. For more information on the 25th edition of the race – which will take place on Sunday, March 21st, 2010 – please visit www.lamarathon.com.

Four Honda vehicles earned recognition from the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) as among the “greenest vehicles of 2010” with the Civic GX natural gas car earning the title of American’s greenest vehicle for the seventh consecutive year, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today. In the annual ACEEE’s “Green Book® Online” ranking of environmentally responsible vehicles (available at www.greenercars.org), the near-zero emissions natural gas-powered Civic GX ranked first with the Civic Hybrid, Insight and Fit joining the list on the ACEEE’s 12 most environmentally responsible vehicles available to the public.

This is the tenth year in a row that a Honda vehicle received the number one ranking and the ninth consecutive year that Honda vehicles held at least three positions in the top 12. This year’s list also marks the first appearance of the next-generation Insight in its first year on the market.

“Honda’s rankings in the ACEEE study are emblematic of our commitment to lowering emissions and increasing fuel efficiency in all of our models,” said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda. "Honda continues to set the standard for socially and environmentally responsible vehicles with products like the Insight and Civic GX.”

The ACEEE’s ranking system uses a singular measure that incorporates fuel economy, health-related pollution impacts, and global warming emissions. All vehicles are analyzed and given a "Green Score” which is used to rank a vehicle’s total environmental performance, including a list of the 12 "greenest" and 12 "meanest" vehicles. The Civic GX, first introduced in 1998 and currently built at Honda Manufacturing of Indiana*, is the cleanest internal combustion vehicle certified by the U.S. EPA**.

Honda has a long history of environmental innovation, including the introduction of America’s first hybrid, the Honda Insight (1999), delivery of the first fuel cell vehicle in the U.S., the FCX (2002) and the first gasoline-powered vehicles in the hands of consumers to meet stricter emissions standards, including:

• The first gasoline Low Emissions Vehicle (LEV), the 1996 Honda Civic.
• The first gasoline Ultra-Low Emissions vehicle (ULEV), the 1998 Honda Accord.
• The first gasoline Super Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEV), the 2000 Honda Accord.
• The first Advanced Technology Partial-Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV), the 2001 Civic GX natural gas vehicle.

The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing energy efficiency as a means of promoting both economic prosperity and environmental protection.

*Using domestically and globally sourced parts
**EPA Tier-2, Bin-2 and ILEV certification as of January 2010

Honda today announced a donation to the Red Cross of more than $300,000, as well as portable generators, water pumps, and other Honda products for use during humanitarian relief and recovery efforts in Haiti.

The donation represents the collective contribution of the Honda family of companies in North America, which consists of sales, manufacturing, finance and research and development operations in the United States, Canada and Mexico, with employment of more than 31,000 associates.

"We want to help address the dire human need that Haiti is experiencing as a result of this disaster," said Tetsuo Iwamura, president & chief executive officer of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., and chief operating officer of Honda’s North American region. "Honda has a longstanding relationship with the Red Cross, and we will work continuously with them to assist with the effort to provide much-needed relief."

The Red Cross has emphasized that the greatest current need is funding to support on-site emergency response teams. Honda has also been in close communication with the Red Cross regarding its need for material and equipment such as generators and water pumps on site, and Honda will continue to work with the Red Cross to determine its need for such support in Haiti.

The Honda donation consists of more than $300,000 in cash. This pledge will be augmented by a company matching gift available at various Honda companies, with funds designated to the Red Cross.

About Honda
Honda began operations in North America in 1959, and began producing products in North America in 1979, using domestic and globally-sourced parts. Honda has invested more than $12.1 billion in its North American operations, with annual purchases of more than $17.5 billion in parts and materials from suppliers in North America.

Honda News & Views: http://www.honda.com/news
Honda Multimedia Newsroom (For Media Only): http://www.hondanews.com

Watch the full press conference video

The all-new 2011 Honda CR-Z sport hybrid coupe, making its U.S. production debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, introduces sleek styling and sporty handling to the hybrid segment, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today.

"The CR-Z is a personal sport hybrid coupe for people with a spirit of adventure and an elevated sense of responsibility toward the environment," said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales for American Honda. "It's the first hybrid designed to maximize style and fun, in addition to efficiency and economy."

Set to go on sale late summer in the U.S., the CR-Z is powered by a 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine with Honda's compact and lightweight Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid-electric system. The two-passenger CR-Z introduces a new three-mode drive system that allows the driver to select between Sport, Econ (Economy) and Normal driving modes.

The exterior's distinctive "one-motion" wedge form originates from its low-slung hood to form a broad forward stance. A side profile with a deeply inset beltline conveys a dynamic tension, while the short wheelbase and large, wide front grille accents the vehicle's athletic presence.

The futuristically styled interior offers a high-tech appearance and ergonomically intuitive controls. Instrument panel meters illuminate with a three-dimensional, vibrant blue color theme resulting in a multi-layered appearance. Set against a motif of textured black materials and aluminum-style trim accents, the upper portion of the dashboard extends toward the driver to provide a wrap-around cockpit environment. The passenger zone offers an open, comfortable space. Premium sport-oriented cloth seats are designed to provide excellent lateral support along with everyday driving comfort. A mid-ship console behind the front seats optimizes cargo space. A hard-shell separator can be closed to create additional hidden storage.

The two trim levels include the well-equipped CR-Z and the feature-rich CR-Z EX. A six-speed manual transmission is standard equipment and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is available. Standard features on the CR-Z include Vehicle Stability Assist, an AM/FM/CD/USB audio system with six speakers, automatic climate control, power windows and door locks, remote entry, cruise control, and more. The CR-Z EX adds, High-Intensity Discharge (HID) Headlights with Auto-On/Off, fog lights, a 360-Watt AM/FM/CD premium audio system with seven speakers including subwoofer, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel, and more. The CR-Z EX is available with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System¹ with voice recognition.

The CR-Z represents the sixth unique version of Honda's original IMA technology since the launch of the 2000 Insight, the first hybrid vehicle available in North America in December 1999. The foundation of the CR-Z's hybrid powertrain is a 4-cylinder, 16-valve, single overhead cam engine with "intelligent" Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (i-VTEC) that receives additional power from the IMA system's DC brushless electric motor. The i-VTEC system controls the opening and closing of one intake valve per cylinder to enhance combustion at low RPMs. The 10-kilowatt electric motor assists in acceleration and also acts as a generator during braking or coasting to capture kinetic energy that recharges the 100-volt IMA nickel-metal hydride battery pack. The gasoline engine can automatically turn off during vehicle stops to improve efficiency.

The system delivers a combined peak output of 122 horsepower² at 6,000 rpm and 128 lb-ft. of torque² at 1,000 to 1,500 rpm (123 lb-ft on CVT-equipped models). Preliminary fuel economy estimates are anticipated to result in a rating of 36 city/38 highway miles per gallon³ on CVT-equipped models. Manual transmission models are anticipated to achieve an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 31 city/37 highway miles per gallon³. The CR-Z is rated as an Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV) in states that adhere to California Air Resource Board (CARB) ZEV standards (EPA Tier 2, Bin 2 in all states).

The standard six-speed manual transmission is engineered for optimal acceleration performance in gears one through five and for optimal fuel economy in sixth gear. When starting on steep inclines from a stop, hill start assist temporarily prevents the vehicle from rolling backwards during the moment between releasing the brake, depressing the throttle and releasing the clutch (for a duration of approximately 1.5 seconds). The available CVT provides the convenience of an automatic transmission with a seamless transition between minimum and maximum ratios, while also keeping the engine within an optimal RPM range for overall efficiency. To increase the performance potential of the CVT, paddle shifters located on the steering wheel allow the driver to manually simulate the stepped holding pattern. In Sport mode, the paddle shifters will hold and maintain a selected ratio.
The CR-Z's three-mode drive system allows the driver to select between individual modes of performance for Sport, Normal and Economy driving styles. The system is activated via three backlit buttons to the left of the steering wheel.

The Sport mode enhances multiple vehicle systems for performance including the engine throttle responsiveness, electric power steering effort and the electric motor power assist. The inner ring of the tachometer illuminates red when the vehicle is in Sport mode.

During Econ mode operation, the engine's responsiveness is tuned for optimal economy, the electric motor assist gives priority to fuel efficiency and the air conditioning system can reduce its overall load on the engine. The inner ring of the tachometer transitions between blue and green when the vehicle is in Econ mode, with the green representing more ecological driving.

Normal mode provides standard settings for steering, engine response, motor assist and air conditioning. Similar to Econ mode, the tachometer ring transitions between blue and green when the vehicle is in normal mode, with the green representing more ecological driving. Like the Honda Insight, the CR-Z offers an Eco Guide and Eco scoring feature to help drivers track progress of efficient driving styles.

The front MacPherson strut suspension and rear H-shaped torsion beam suspension settings are tuned to provide a sporty, solid and dynamic driving experience. All models are equipped with 16x6-inch aluminum wheels with 195/55 R16 86V tires. Accessory 17x7 alloy wheels with 205/45R17 84V tires with are available. The standard anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake distribution (EBD) uses ventilated front discs and solid rear discs. The low vehicle height and placement of the battery and other hybrid components beneath the rear cargo area further contribute to a low center of gravity, which is key to the new CR-Z's responsive, sporty handling. Electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering enhances steering performance and improves efficiency.

In addition to being environmentally responsible, the CR-Z demonstrates a commitment to safety in its design and construction. The Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure helps protect vehicle occupants in a frontal collision. Additional safety technologies include standard dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags; standard front-side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); side-curtain airbags, active head restraints; an anti-lock braking system; a tire pressure monitoring system; and a pedestrian injury mitigation design in the front of the vehicle.

Additional Honda media information is available at Hondanews.com. Consumer information is available at automobiles.honda.com.

¹ The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ is available on the CR-Z EX in the United States, except Alaska. Please see your Honda dealer for details.

² Preliminary estimate provided by Honda. Final specification is subject to change.

³ Preliminary EPA mileage estimates determined by Honda. Final EPA mileage estimates not available at the time of printing. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

The 2011 Honda CR-Z Sport Hybrid Revealed in Detroit – Part 1 of 2

The 2011 Honda CR-Z Sport Hybrid Revealed in Detroit – Part 2 of 2

The all-new 2011 Honda CR-Z sport hybrid coupe introduces sleek styling and sporty handling to the hybrid segment. It is the first hybrid designed to maximize style and fun in addition to efficiency and economy. Set to go on sale late summer in the U.S., the CR-Z is powered by a 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine with Honda’s compact and lightweight Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid-electric system. The two-passenger CR-Z introduces a new three-mode drive system that allows the driver to select between Sport, Econ (Economy) and Normal driving modes.

Specifications*
1.5-liter SOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine with Integrated Motor Assist (IMA)
122 horsepower (estimated) @ 6000 rpm (combined engine + IMA)
128 lb-ft. of torque (estimated) @ 1,000 - 1,500 rpm (123 lb-ft. for CVT), (combined engine + IMA)
AT-PZEV CARB Emissions Rating
Preliminary EPA Estimated Fuel Economy, CVT (City/Highway/Combined): 36/38/37 miles per gallon**
Preliminary EPA Estimated Fuel Economy, MT (City/Highway/Combined): 31/37/33 miles per gallon**
Overall Vehicle Length x Width x Height (in): 160.6 x 68.5 x 54.9 (including antenna)
Wheelbase (in.): 95.8
Weight (lbs., preliminary estimates): Approximately 2,670 (MT) to 2,725 (CVT)

* All specifications represent preliminary estimates provided by Honda. Final specifications are subject to change.
** Preliminary EPA mileage estimates determined by Honda. Final EPA mileage estimates not available at the time of printing. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

CR-Z Features
3-Mode Drive System (Sport/Normal/ECON)
Eco Assist™ System
6-Speed Manual Transmission (standard)
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with Paddle Shifter System (available)
Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) Body Structure
Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with Traction Control
Automatic Climate Control
16-inch Alloy Wheels
Tilt and Telescopic Steering Column
Security System with Remote Entry
Cruise Control
160-Watt AM/FM/CD Audio System with MP3/Windows Media® Audio (WMA) playback capability and 6 Speakers [1]
MP3/Auxiliary Input Jack
USB Audio Interface [2]

CR-Z EX Features
Adding to or replacing features on the CR-Z
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® with Steering Wheel-Mounted Controls [3]
Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with Voice Recognition (Available) [4]
High-Intensity Discharge (HID) Headlights with Auto-On/Off
Fog Lights
Perforated Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
Aluminum Shift Knob with Leather (6MT)
Textured Aluminum Pedals
360-Watt AM/FM/CD Premium Audio System with MP3/Windows Media® Audio (WMA) playback capability and 7 Speakers including Subwoofer

[1] Windows Media® is a trademark or registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
[2] The USB Audio Interface is used for direct connection to and control of some current digital audio players and other USB devices that contain MP3, WMA or AAC music files. Some USB devices with security software and digital rights-protected files may not work. Please see your Honda dealer for details.
[3] The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and any use of such marks by Honda Motor Co., Ltd., is under license.
[4] The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ is available on EX models in the United States, except Alaska. Please see your Honda dealer for details.

Takanobu Ito

It's nice to be back in Detroit. I'm excited to be at the show this year as the entire industry continues to fight back against the difficult business conditions. Last year was the 50th anniversary of our business in America. And I want to begin by thanking our customers and the communities where we develop and build our products. This milestone would not have been possible without their support.

Ten years ago, I was working in Ohio at Honda R&D Americas on development of the first generation Acura MDX. This project led us to this Detroit show, because in 2001, our team was honored with the North American Truck of the Year award here at this show. I was also a member of the team that created the aluminum body of the original Acura NSX.

Last year, due to the business conditions and to focus on reducing CO2 emissions, we re-focused some of our product development resources. Now, I'm pleased to say that we will be adding hybrids to the Acura brand. And based on my history in developing several Acura products, I have strong confidence in our ability to advance the Acura brand.

As I look at the market today, at Honda, we have the advantage of being a very global company with strong operations worldwide, including the growing markets of China and Asia. Further, Honda has the advantage of three major business areas - including automobiles, motorcycles and power equipment products. Together, our global makeup and great product diversity provide us strength and flexibility in difficult times, helping us manage the ups and downs of any one market or product segment, while keeping Honda in the black financially.

Our three business lines also make us the leading engine producer in the world. This has provided Honda with tremendous expertise in the area of power plant technology but also a deep sense of responsibility to advance technology in order to reduce CO2 emissions that contribute to global warming.

For engineers, this is perhaps the most challenging time in the history of the auto industry. At Honda, our focus is on being at the very forefront in the area of environment and energy technologies. And we have taken up the challenge to reduce CO2 emissions through the advancement of various electromotive technologies.

We understand electric vehicle technology as well as anyone. Honda developed the EV Plus electric vehicle in the 1990s and leased it to individual customers in California. Now, we are conducting research on a short-distance battery electric vehicle as a "city commuter car." Battery technology continues to be a barrier to mass market use. But we're studying the U.S. market with a view to introducing this commuter car in the future.

We continue to believe that a fuel cell electric vehicle is the ultimate solution to reduce CO2 emissions. A fuel cell car IS a full electric vehicle. But rather than use electricity from the grid, a fuel cell vehicle generates electricity on board and refills more quickly. The development cost must come down and there must be a major expansion of the hydrogen fueling infrastructure. But make no mistake. As a vehicle, the Honda FCX Clarity is ready now. Further, Honda is unique in making long-term investments to develop the refueling infrastructure for alternative fuel vehicles.

This month, we will begin operation of a next-generation solar hydrogen station at our Los Angeles R&D center. This compact system was designed for daily home refueling of a fuel cell electric vehicle. Honda engineers were able to eliminate the compressor entirely to greatly reduce the size of the system to fit in the user's garage. The potential of a solar hydrogen station is one reason a fuel cell electric vehicle is the ultimate eco-car - the best path to reduce CO2.

But in the near term, the most important approach to cut CO2 emissions is expanding the use of hybrid electric vehicles. To increase the opportunity for more customers to choose a hybrid we must be able to meet different needs with family, luxury and sporty hybrid vehicles. We will apply hybrid systems which are compact, lightweight and affordable to a wider range of products in the near future.

It won't be easy to create fun and affordable products that achieve a dramatic reduction in CO2. But we embrace this challenge. Honda is a company that loves creating new things for people. We are working in a comprehensive way dedicated to research and development of next-generation technologies in every field, to create products that bring joy to our customers and lead the way in reducing CO2 emissions.

My first assignment in the U.S. came in the early 1980s. I was a young engineer, developing the chassis for the first generation Honda CRX. You might remember it as the "pocket rocket". I remember CRX as a vehicle that demonstrated that a car can be both sporty and fuel efficient.

Times have changed, but the idea of developing vehicles that are both fun to drive and fuel efficient is alive and well.

Today, it is my pleasure to introduce, for the first time, the production version of a new sport hybrid car that further demonstrates the potential of the Honda hybrid system and our commitment to offer both fun and fuel efficiency in one dynamic package. Thank you.

John Mendel

Well… I hope you love your first look at the production version of the all-new Honda CR-Z, as much as we do. This is the global debut of a global car, and we're very excited to be able to bring it to our customers in the here in the U.S. For those of you who weren't around for the CRX that Mr. Ito helped develop, the CRX was ORIGINALLY introduced in the U.S. as a high fuel efficiency vehicle. However, with time, its style and fun nature arguably played a huge role in the birth of the tuner market. CRX became a darling of the enthusiast community - truly, a car that put a smile on everyone's face.

2009 was a very challenging year for the entire industry. But, December was a good ending to the year for Honda. I don't know about you, but we're glad 2009 is behind us. What better way to kick off the year than with the debut of this stylish and fun new CR-Z, which will join the Civic Hybrid and Insight as the third Honda hybrid vehicle in our lineup. And it will definitely put a smile on your face. I'd like to introduce and thank the chief engineer of the all new CR-Z, Mr. Tomobe; Mr. Tomobe, please stand...

CR-Z is an altogether new vision - a renaissance, if you will - for a car of the future; one whose unique positioning satisfies a new type of customer desire. The CR-Z was developed for a more discerning customer who is seeking a unique combination of forward-looking style, fun-to-drive spirit, advanced safety and fuel efficiency. Truly, a combination of qualities that puts CR-Z in a class by itself.

CR-Z is a look into the future of sporty and personal driving. It's a vehicle for customers in search of something that engages both their heads and their hearts, that indulges their spirit of adventure and their sense of responsibility to the environment. The CR-Z demonstrates in a most stylish way that you don't have to abandon your passions to satisfy your conscience.

Helping CR-Z deliver on these seemingly polarizing values is a 1.5-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine; an integrated IMA hybrid motor mated to a slick-shifting 6-speed manual transmission; or an available CVT that produces 122 horsepower and up to 128 pound feet of torque. We estimate the CR-Z to deliver fuel economy of up to 36 miles per gallon in the city and 38 mpg on the highway.

CR-Z's 3-mode driving system features a spectrum of driving options from a Sport mode that makes the car feel more tight and peppy; to an Econ mode that helps to boost fuel economy through the Eco Assist driver feedback function, introduced last year on the new Insight.

Now, I know you've heard from others with plans to offer up a product in this new segment. But this is a real car coming to you in just a few months.

Of course, it's a Honda. So, you know CR-Z will also feature a strong suite of standard safety equipment: six airbags, anti-lock brakes, vehicle stability assist and our unique Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure for enhanced collision compatibility.

With standard 16" alloy wheels, a 6-speaker stereo with USB audio connectivity and an automatic climate control system, CR-Z is chock full of standard amenities. Available options include a navigation system, premium audio package, fog lights, Bluetooth, and HID headlights.

The CR-Z will go on sale this summer -and we're confident it will deliver a driving experience unlike any other hybrid on the road today. The CR-Z will not only create a new hybrid segment, it will change people's impressions of how fun a hybrid can be.

Pricing will be announced closer to the on-sale date. As you heard from Ito-san, CR-Z will also add to Honda's long-standing legacy of fuel economy leadership. For the past 33 years, American Honda has been a leader in fuel economy. Our efforts to advance this commitment will only grow in the coming years, with CR-Z and additional hybrid models.

Further, CR-Z isn't joining a static lineup. Both the Honda and Acura brands start the year with the introduction of new crossover vehicles. The flexible Honda Accord Crosstour and the provocative Acura ZDX are helping us get a rollinke note that this is far from the final act of our 2010 auto show season. We've got a little more excitement for you in the months ahead for both the Honda and Acura brands. So stay tuned.

After surviving the difficult challenges of the past year, we're confident that 2010 is going to be a truly exciting year for Honda.

So, thank you again for your time and attention here this afternoon. And now, I'd like to invite Mr. Ito to join me on stage for a quick photo for my personal album. Thank you.

American Honda Motor Co., Inc., delivered a zero emissions hydrogen-powered FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle today to its latest customer, 2010 Canadian Olympic hockey team captain, Scott Niedermayer. Also a team captain for the Anaheim Ducks National Hockey League team, Niedermayer is a leader both on and off the ice, promoting an environmentally responsible lifestyle and the protection of natural resources.

"My love for nature and the outdoors developed while growing up in Canada and I hope the generations after me get to experience nature as I have," said Scott Niedermayer. "Everyday actions, like driving the zero-emissions Honda FCX Clarity, will help to make this dream a reality."

Honda's FCX Clarity produces electricity onboard from hydrogen via Honda's innovative V Flow fuel cell stack with water vapor as its only emission. Significant advances include exhilarating performance, futuristic sedan packaging and a driving range of up to 240 miles*. FCX Clarity's fuel efficiency is three times that of a comparable, modern gasoline-powered automobile.

"The FCX Clarity demonstrates Honda's commitment to developing zero-emissions vehicles, and we believe that having drivers like Scott Niedermayer behind the wheel of a Honda FCX Clarity is a great way to reach out to a new audience of drivers," said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales for American Honda. "We hope that Scott's example of driving the FCX Clarity will inspire fans and other athletes to consider more environmentally responsible products."

Niedermayer and his wife, Lisa, reside in Orange County, California, with their four sons. The family enjoys the outdoors together by camping and mountain biking. Their love of nature has inspired the family to seek a greener lifestyle that includes changes such as adding insulation around the family home and installing a radiant barrier on the roof to conserve energy. Niedermayer already carpools to games with his fellow teammates and promotes a recycling program around his team's dressing room.

Honda's advanced fuel cell electric vehicles have been tested and proven through a series of successful partnerships over the last seven years with various fleet users and retail customers. A small but growing network of hydrogen fuel stations in Southern California allow for vehicle refueling in about five minutes and offer a clean, domestic energy supply for transportation. Honda has gained extensive experience from the deployment of several generations of its fuel cell electric vehicle technology with the ultimate goal of achieving the mass-market commercialization of zero-emissions fuel cell vehicles.

*Fuel economy estimates and driving range based on EPA test data. Your actual driving distance will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle

American Honda Motor Co., Inc., today reported December monthly sales of 107,143, an increase of 15.6 percent on a daily sellingrate* basis. American Honda's 2009 annual vehicle sales totaled 1,150,784, a decline of 19.5 percent compared to 2008 results.

Honda Division's December monthly sales of 96,568 represented an increase of 18.9 percent compared to 2008. Honda Division's 2009 annual sales of 1,045,061 decreased 18.6 percent compared to 2008. The topthree bestselling Honda models for 2009 were the Accord, 290,056; Civic, 259,722; and CRV, 191,214.

Accord monthly sales increased 17.3 percent for December to 28,238. Monthly Civic sales increased by 19.8 percent to 22,319. The CRV, the country's bestselling SUV in 2008 and 2009, increased sales by 24.5 percent to 18,686 for a new December sales record. Additional models with monthly sales gains included the Pilot, up 26.6 percent to 9,184, and the Odyssey, up 19.8 percent to 8,966.

"The good news is that the market appears to be stabilizing and we have more reasons for optimism in 2010," said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda. "There seems to be light at the end of the tunnel; let's hope it's not another train coming, but rather, brighter days ahead."

The Acura Division's yearend sales totaled 105,723, down 26.8 percent. December Acura sales totaled 10,575, down 8.1 percent. The TL led the division with annual sales of 33,620, followed closely by the MDX with sales of 31,178.

December TSX sales increased 17.9 percent to 2,926. December RDX sales increased 4.4 percent to 1,283. The much-anticipated Acura ZDX four-door sports coupe made its sales debut in the second half of the month.

*The annual Daily Selling Rate (DSR) is calculated with 308 days for 2009 and 2008. December 2009 included 28 selling days versus 26 selling days for 2008. All percentages represent DSR.

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For more information or downloadable high-resolution images of Honda and Acura vehicles, please visit Hondanews.com for Honda and Acuranews.com for Acura. Consumer information is available at Honda.com for Honda and Acura.com for Acura.

The Honda Personal-Neo Urban Transport (P-NUT) design study model demonstrates a futuristic concept for an ultra-compact and sophisticated city coupe, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show.

Conceived around a small "footprint" for maximum convenience in tight urban settings, the packaging concept integrates a center driving position configuration and a rear powertrain layout. The exterior styling leverages crisp angles with dynamic flowing lines that originate from the front of the vehicle and span outward toward the rear. The end result is a sleek and aggressive exterior that also allows for a spacious and open interior with excellent visibility.

"A new generation is discovering the benefits of living in urban centers that provide convenient access to business, entertainment and social opportunities," said Dave Marek, director of advanced design for Honda R&D Americas, Inc. "The Personal-Neo Urban Transport concept explores the packaging and design potential for a vehicle conceived exclusively around the city lifestyle."

The exterior styling is intended to capture a future direction for premium sophistication while balancing the need for maximum interior space and an aerodynamic appearance. The interior layout, in conjunction with the rear powertrain design, contributes prominently to the exterior's overall shape.

The layout of the interior space, with its center driving position flanked by two rear seats, provides generous legroom for all occupants, roughly the equivalent of a mid-sized sedan in a vehicle that has an exterior footprint similar to a micro car. Interior functionality is increased by rear seating areas that fold up and out of the way to increase storage capacity. The windshield serves as a heads-up display for the navigation system and the back-up camera.

The modular rear engine bay, depicted on the exterior by blue composite material, is designed to accommodate a wide variety of potential propulsion technologies including a conventional small displacement internal combustion engine, a hybrid gasoline-electric powertrain, or a battery-electric powertrain.

"The objective of the exterior and interior designers was to explore the potential for a new type of small-segment-category vehicle that overcomes many of the objections for existing micro-car designs," said Marek. "While the Honda P-NUT concept introduces function-oriented concepts, it also shows that small cars don't have to compromise on style or amenities."

The Advanced Design Studio of Honda R&D Americas, Inc. in Los Angeles developed the P-NUT design study model. Honda R&D Americas began its operations in California in 1975 with local market research activities and has steadily grown its capabilities over the past 33 years to include all aspects of new vehicle research, design and development. Recent Honda-brand efforts include trend-setting products such as the Pilot, Ridgeline, Element, Civic Coupe and Civic Si Coupe.

Specifications

Size class: Ultra-compact
Layout: Rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive
Passengers: 3
Length: 3,400 mm
Width: 1,750 mm
Height: 1,439 mm
Powertrain: Internal-combustion engine, hybrid-electric or battery-electric

For consumer information about Honda, please visit www.honda.com. For media inquiries, please visit www.hondanews.com.

American Honda Motor Co., Inc., today announced that it has received three Residual Value Awards from ALG. ALG's 11th annual Residual Value Awards, for the 2010 model year, honored the vehicles in each industry segment that ALG predicts will retain the highest percentage of their original price after a three-year period.

The Accord won the award in the Best Midsize Car category, the Fit was the winner in the Best Compact Car category and the Odyssey prevailed in the Best Minivan category. Since 2001, the Honda brand has earned 20 model awards and six overall brand awards from ALG.

"In a challenging economy, residual value moves up on the list of buyer considerations," said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "These ALG awards once again recognize Honda's commitment to offer high-quality products with long-term value."

ALG determines the award winners after carefully studying the competition in each segment, historical vehicle performance and industry trends. Vehicle quality, production levels relative to demand, and pricing strategies are among the key factors that affect ALG's residual value forecasts.

For more information or downloadable high-resolution images of Honda vehicles, please visit www.hondanews.com. Consumer information is available at www.honda.com.

About ALG (www.alg.com)
Based in Santa Barbara, California, ALG is a leading provider of data and consulting services to the automotive industry. ALG publishes the "Automotive Lease Guide" - the standard for Residual Value projections in North America, and has been forecasting automotive residual values for over 40 years in both the U.S. and Canadian markets. ALG is a company of DealerTrack Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: TRAK).

American Honda Motor Co., Inc., posted November sales of 74,003, an increase of 5.5 percent based on the daily selling rate* when compared to November 2008 results of 76,233, the company announced today. American Honda year-to-date sales of 1,043,641 represent a decrease of 21.7 percent based on the daily selling rate*.

Honda Division posted November sales of 65,234, an increase of 3.7 percent versus November 2008. The Accord registered the most sales of any Honda model for the month with 17,239, an increase of 7.5 percent. Additional models with year-over-year sales increases included the CR-V, up 24.8 percent to 13,955; and the Pilot, up 26.2 percent to 6,502.

"We're finding opportunities for growth in multiple areas of the market," said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales for American Honda. "Consumer interest is returning in several segments, including light trucks."

Acura Division sales increased 20.8 percent to 8,769. The MDX led the division with sales of 3,465, an increase of 79.3 percent. The TSX and RDX also recorded gains, up 35.0 percent and 50.5 percent, respectively.

*The daily selling rate (DSR) is calculated with 23 days for November 2009 and 25 days for 2008. Year-to-date, the DSR is calculated with 280 days for 2009, versus 282 days for 2008. All percentages reflect DSR.

For more information about Honda vehicles, please visit www.honda.com. For media inquiries please visit www.hondanews.com. For more information about Acura vehicles, please visit www.acura.com. For media inquiries please visit www.acuranews.com.